PTSA holds fundraiser

The second annual golf-a-thon took place on Monday, Oct. 13. It was held at Penderbrook Golf Club, where students, alumni, and parents took part in the 36-hole event. The purpose of the event was to help raise money for the PTSA and other school organizations such as the marching band, The A-Blast, and athletic teams of the donor’s choice. In all, 18 volunteers took part in the golf-a-thon.
“Each of the student organizations and booster clubs have needs for funding and the golf-a-thon gives the opportunity for all these organizations to participate without putting up the capital to buy inventory and only requires the support of the parents and friends of each of these organizations” said Cary Vu, the event coordinator in charge of the golf-a-thon.
Parents of students attending AHS made up the majority of volunteers at the golf-a-thon, such as Rich Fruchterman. Fruchterman was a golf-a-thon participant and volunteered to help get support from local businesses.
Various representations of student organizations also played in the 36-hole speed golf, golf-a-thon. Students were also encouraged to partake in the event. “There were students from a wide range of organizations that were taking part,” said Fruchterman.
Last years golf-a-thon was given little effort but had a tremendous turnout. However, this year there was a lot of effort poured into the event, without an increase in participation. This year the PTSA raised only about half of the amount that they received last year. Some feel that the economy played a huge part in the participation of the community.
“All organizations will share the expense of the event and share 50/50 in the profit with the PTSA, however the PTSA profit is capped in the hopes of more funds supporting the organizations.” Said Vu.
Many parents of students at AHS chose to send their money to the sports in which their children are involved. “The money I raised has been divided between the PTSA and, since my daughter plays field hockey and lacrosse, women’s athletics at AHS” said Fruchterman.
The golf-a-thon‘s main purpose is to raise money for the school. “I hoped to raise three hundred dollars and pledges from friends, neighbors, and the parents of other students.” Said Fruchterman.
Last year, the golf-a-thon raised $9,172. Although the final amount is still unclear, the estimated profit this year falls between $5, 000 and $6,000. “I had hoped to raise some money and have some fun,” said Fruchterman. “Many other parents seemed to enjoy this event and the success of it.”
One incentive for the golf-a-thon was to win the big prize of a weekend away or a $200 gift card to Best Buy, while smaller prizes were still awarded to the participants, such as a gift certificate to the pro shop, golf balls and more. “Each player has a goodie bag full of snacks, drinks, tokens, plus a hearty bag lunch and dinner, which was pulled pork and chicken with salads.” Said Vu.